Tendinitis and tendinopathy in pets - Causes, treatment & recovery

Tendinitis and tendinopathy are common tendon conditions in dogs and cats. They cause pain, lameness, and reduced load-bearing capacity. Although tendon problems occur more often in dogs, cats can also be affected, often following trauma. 

In this article, we discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery of tendinitis and tendinopathy in pets.

What are tendinitis and tendinopathy?

Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon, usually caused by overuse or trauma. Tendinopathy is a broader term that encompasses all tendon conditions, such as degeneration, microtrauma, or tears. In pets, these conditions often occur in the shoulder, knee, and Achilles tendon.

Which animals are at risk?

Active dogs, sporting dogs, and working dogs face an increased risk of tendon conditions due to intensive loading. Tendon problems can also arise after trauma, such as a fall or an awkward movement, but also gradually through wear or overuse of tendons in cats and dogs with abnormal (dysplastic) joints. Older animals with reduced tendon elasticity are also more susceptible.

Symptoms in dogs and cats

In dogs:

• Lameness that worsens with exertion
• Sensitivity or pain when pressure is applied to the tendon
• Swelling or thickening of the tendon
• Reduced performance in sporting and working dogs

In cats:

• Often subtle lameness
• Reluctance to jump or climb stairs
• Pain response when touching the affected tendon

Diagnosis of tendinitis and tendinopathy

The diagnosis is made through physical examination and assessment of lameness. Additional examination with ultrasound can reveal thickening, inflammation, or tears of the tendon. MRI is sometimes used to better visualize the severity and extent.

Treatment of tendinitis and tendinopathy

Treatment depends on the severity and duration of the complaints. In acute tendinitis, the emphasis is on rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and controlled loading. Chronic tendinopathies often require long-term physiotherapy, exercise therapy, and sometimes additional treatments such as shockwave therapy or PRP injections (Platelet-Rich Plasma). In cases of severe tendon tears or other tendon problems, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Recovery and aftercare

The recovery process can range from a few weeks in mild cases to several months in chronic or severe tendon conditions. Controlled movement, physiotherapy, and in some cases hydrotherapy are important for optimal recovery. The prognosis in dogs is usually good with timely treatment, while cats often recover more quickly.

Want to know more?

Read more about our services in orthopedics and rehabilitation. Our specialized veterinarians at Nesto have extensive experience with tendon and muscle problems and guide your pet toward optimal recovery.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between tendinitis and tendinopathy?

Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon, while tendinopathy is an umbrella term for all tendon conditions, including degeneration and tears.

Which animals are most at risk?

Especially active dogs such as sporting and working dogs. In cats, it is rare and usually trauma-related.

How is the diagnosis made?

Through physical examination, ultrasound, and sometimes MRI.

What treatments are available?

Rest, medication, physiotherapy, shockwave therapy, PRP injections, and possibly surgery.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies from a few weeks to several months, depending on severity and treatment.